Description

Freedom and Security offers a refreshing alternative to most texts on the welfare state. Tony Fitzpatrick argues that the status quo cannot be defended. However, we should not then fall into the trap of supporting more market forces and less universalism in welfare provision. Dr Fitzpatrick's position is that the principles of collective and universal welfare can be preserved but that the system should be reformed by introducing a radical yet disarmingly simple device: a Basic Income. A Basic Income would be an income paid periodically and unconditionally to every man, woman and child as a fundamental right of citizenship and without reference to employment, marital or household status. It would be a means of ensuring the twin objectives of freedom and security for all. This book provides an introduction to the Basic Income debate, examining a range of arguments for and against, and so will be of interest to anybody concerned with the future direction of the welfare state.show more

About Tony Fitzpatrick

TONY FITZPATRICK is a Lecturer in Social Policy at the University of Luton and lectured previously at the University of Newcastle. He has published articles and chapters in a number of journals and books, including the Journal of Social Policy, New Political Thought and Social Policy: A Textbook.show more

Table of contents

Figures and Tables List of Abbreviations Preface and Acknowledgements Foreword; Christopher Pierson PART 1: PERIPHERAL VISIONS Forward to Basics The Benefits and Burdens of Social Security The Basics of Basic Income The Defence Versus the Prosecution PART 2: WHOSE FREEDOM? WHOSE SECURITY? The Radical Right: Universal Means-Testing Welfare Collectivism: Beyond Selective Insurance Socialism and Social Dividend Feminism and Basic Income Ecologism and Basic Income Afterword Endnotes Bibliography Indexshow more